(The Beacon)
By Andy Sherwood, Guest Commentary -- The Beacon
That day in May will come. And it will be sunny. Your time as a student at the University of Portland will finally be complete. Whether that day is in a few weeks or a few years, there are a few things you should know about being an alumnus of the university.
This isn't a pitch for money. Trust me, when I want your money I will ask for it in a very specific way. This is more about what we can do for you once you walk out of here with your diploma. This is about utilizing the greater University of Portland alumni network. In 2011, it has become easier than ever to network.
A decade ago, when I graduated, networking was much more difficult. We did not have Facebook or Twitter. Our cell phones did not even have the ability to send or receive text messages. I never knew when my friends were going to Yorgo's so I was forced to go there every night.
That is where my network started and where your network will start and probably already has started. And although Yorgo's is still a quality establishment, I suspect that your current network goes further than the dude you are about to embarrass on the pool table tonight.
The way I see it your network is three pronged at this point. It includes (in no specific order): your classmates/friends, your professors and the greater alumni network.
Professors: Have you ever had a conversation with a professor? Do you know where they went to undergrad? Do you know the name of their cat? Or the model of Subaru they drive? Use your professors as a sounding board. Ask them their opinions on various career paths. Tell them about what you are passionate about. Have a real conversation with them that doesn't end with you asking them for a letter of recommendation.
Classmates/Friends: I kind of went over this a couple of paragraphs above. That guy you worked in billiards at the Sundown, the girl in your marketing class, your RA from freshman year, the Rollerblade guy. All of those people are in your network. They may not seem useful now but sooner than you think they will be in position or you will be in a position to set them up with a paying gig. I know many people who have launched and sustained successful careers simply by staying connected with their friends from UP.
Greater Alumni Network: You are probably wondering, who are these alumni that you speak of? They are not much different than you. In fact, 27, 60 or 2 years ago, they were you. Now, they are captains of industry, doctors, accountants and world travelers and because they were sitting right where you are now they are interested in helping you out. You can contact with them through our office as well as through your classmates and professors. Become a fan of the University of Portland Alumni page on the Facebook (facebook.com/upalumni), and we will be sure to invite you to alumni events where you can begin expand your network. Join our alumni group on LinkedIn as well to make great professional connections.
And more importantly, our door at the Office of Alumni Relations (6625 N Portsmouth) is open Monday thru Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
We would love to help you get connected.
Andy Sherwood is the associate director of Alumni Relations and graduated from UP in 2001. He can be contacted at sherwood@up.edu.
(Alicia Gaghan -- The Beacon)
